Main Types of Diabetes and Their Causes:

There are three main typesof diabetes, but did you know…

they all have something in common?

Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes all share some common factors:

Typically, the body breaks down the carbohydrates you eat into glucose (a simple sugar), which is used in the body’s cells for energy and fuel.

Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, is needed to take the produced glucose and convert it to this usable form of energy.

Someone living with either of these forms of diabetes has either:

1) trouble producing enough insulin

2) and/or cannot use the insulin their body produces, properly

In either of these cases, glucose will remain in the bloodstream and continue to build up, ultimately raising blood sugar levels.

The long-term effects of this can be life-threatening, such as an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke, if not treated properly.

Type 1:

AKA “insulin-dependent” diabetes

often begins around early childhood

This type of diabetes is either genetically predisposed or from faulty calls in the pancreas, both of which will cause the body to create an autoimmune response and…

attack its own pancreas!

…leading to an insufficient production of insulin (so it must be injected externally to maintain treatment).

Type 2:

AKA “non-insulin dependent” diabetes

The most common type, accounting for 95% of all diabetes cases.

In this type of diabetes, the pancreas still produces insulin but in inadequate amounts or produces faulty or resistant insulin and must work very hard to maintain even these low/resistant amounts of insulin production.

Insulin resistance primarily occurs in the fat, liver, and muscle cells– which can be seen in people who are obese (over 20% of their ideal body weight).

Diabetic PET/ CT FDG Scans:Checking your health

A recommended scan for diabetics is a PET/ CT FDG scan, which is used to mimic the flow of glucose through the body.

The test will not only monitor the efficiency of the body’s cells in taking up glucose from the bloodstream and using it for energy, but also record the effectiveness of different structures in the body.

Preparation for the scan begins two weeks prior to the scan’s date, by talking with your diabetes care provider to discuss the limits on exercise, medication, insulin, and fasting, before the actual exam.

Limits on food and medication increase the closer one gets to the exam date, so be aware of blood glucose levels nearing your scan date andcheck them regularly.

Some professionals recommend trying “practice days” to make sure your blood sugar levels do not drop too low with fasting, since only water is allowed 12 hours before the actual scan.

In any case, checking your body by doing a PET/ CT FDG scan can only be beneficial and made easy if you prepare accordingly.

Many diabetic care providers will gift you with a handout of their specific instructions for things you can and can’t do during the days leading up to the procedure, so be sure to follow all their instructionsto receive an accurate test result.

Be sure to follow all the rules, tips, and procedures recommended by professionals, so that you too can have a joyful and healthy life.

Taking care of your health is imperative to a happy life, so take the steering wheel and be proactive!

Low Carb, Diabetic Friendly, DinnerRecipes

Grilled Asparagus and Shrimp with Pasta:

Known for its popularity in the Spring time, but tasty year-round, asparagus provides the body with many essential nutrients… and sautéed with a lemony-garlic shrimp and pasta combination, makes this dish irresistible- and low carb too!

∼ Keep calm and eat healthy ∼

7 Blood Sugar Testing Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

If you’re receiving error messages from your meter or simply getting false readings, don’t worry- we’ll let you in on a little secret… it’s not your fault! Some understandable mistakes may be getting you frustrated and there are easy ways to avoid them.

Getting in the habit of regular blood sugar testing will help maintain control of not only your glucose levels, but also your life… so, take an active role in maintaining your diabetes and your health with these 7 blood sugar testing tips.

Avoid your fingertip!

The most sensitive part of your fingers are the tips, due to the amount of nerve endings there- so testing there will hurt.

Clean your fingers correctly

In lieu of alcohol, use old fashioned soap and water to wash your hands. Any residue that could be on your fingers is likely to give you false blood sugar readings- especially sugary fruit.

Switch fingers each day

If not every day, switching fingers every time you check your blood sugar will give you consistent readings and prevent soreness and calluses from forming.

Use proper testing materials

To improve effective results, make sure your supplies are up to date and stored in a clean location. Cheating on dull or expired supplies will only hurt yourself.

Understand your meter

With improving technology, you must be caught up on the ins and outs of your device such as: testing your meter’s accuracy and checking instructions.

Wait to test after a meal

Sometimes testing too soon after eating will give you false high results, so be sure to “fast” test or wait at least 2 hours after a meal to insure correct results.

Be a mindful tester

Test on a schedule and remember that your results let you see how your body reacts to different fascist of your life, such as: exercise, diet, and sleep.

Low Carb, Diabetic Friendly, Breakfast Recipes:

Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes:

Buckwheat provides your body with a valuable, long-term, energy source, and slow digesting fiber, keeping not only your blood sugar levels balanced throughout the day, but also your energy too! This easy, low-carb, recipe takes just a small amount of preparation and makes 6 servings per batch- great for a week’s worth of breakfast!

Veggie, Bacon, and Quinoa Quiche:

Adding a few extra vegetables to your morning meal is never a bad idea… and replacing a pastry with a protein-friendly quinoa base cuts down the calorie and carb intake as well… there’s nothing more well-rounded!

Yogurt Breakfast Pudding:

If you’re typically rushing in the morning, try this easy overnight yogurt pudding for a lasting source of energy and a refreshing handy meal… and top with apple slices, for an added, small, serving of fruit!

PB&J Oats:

Would you like a quick, warm, easy, breakfast bowl with a tasty flavor combination everybody loves? Look no further! This breakfast bowl is ready in minutes and packed with lots of fiber and protein, so there’s no need to skip breakfast again!

It’s never too early or too late to become the healthiest version of yourself.

Low Carb, Diabetic Friendly, SnackRecipes:

Peanut Butter Protein Balls:

Eat right away, on your way out the door, in your lunch as a mid-day snack, or months later from the freezer… every way is just as tasty! These portable and easy to make snacks are great for blood sugar levels and low carb too!

Cucumber Crackers:

Replacing processed crackers with crispy, thin, cucumber slices will not only quench your hunger, but also your thirst! Great for dips, a base for spreads, or a snack alone, cucumber crackers are the new thing to try!

This low-carb recipe uses sweet potatoes to make some irresistible and crunchy chips, but feel free to do some fun experiments with different vegetable options, they’ll all be great!

Blueberry Muffin Bars:

Trying to be proactive and plan out some low-carb snacks for the week? Look no further! These bars are great for meal preparation and better yet… they freeze easily for weeks of storage, ready at any time and easy for on-the-go!

Eat right and feel amazing!

Diabetes and Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know:

Hear me out!

One of our most valuable senses is often indirectly damaged by diabetes, but there are many ways to protect your ears from this destruction by simply providing proper care.

Type 2 diabetes can increase the rate of hearing loss by TWO TIMESthe normal amount!

Although it is not certain as to why, because hearing loss tends to be gradual and occurs in older age groups, there is a connection between high blood sugar and increasing nerve damage in the ears- which doctors say is a probable cause.

Signs of Hearing Loss:

Thinking other people are quieter or harder to understand than they are.

Turning up the volume to an uncomfortable level for others around you.

Having a hard time following a conversation in a loud environment… or a quiet one.

Being unable to hear someone if they are not facing you.

Hearing buzzing or ringing sounds in your ears.

To protect your hearing before further development of these signs, schedule a visit with an audiologist and talk about your concerns and options.

Tips for Protecting Your Ears:

Keep control of your blood sugar by checking and exercising regularly.

It is important to follow these tips and treat any concerns you may have with your diabetes and hearing immediately, before symptoms appear or persist!

Bad Habits That Increase Your Diabetes Risk

A series of small choices can define your future, and whether diabetes is in it, is up to you.

Let’s start now!

We’ll discuss some simple lifestyle fixes that can save you from a lifetime of having to make these hard decisions by yourself:

Stop sipping on sugary drinks!

Sodas and other sugary beverages are filled with no nutritional value and empty calories, leaving you wanting more sustenance and increased weight gain. When you’re parched, stick to water!

Don’t skip breakfast!

Without a balanced, full-of-nutrients, first meal of the day, your body has a hard time controlling your insulin and blood sugar levels and may cause you to overeat later in the day.

Eat your fruits and veggies!

Healthy produce choices such as: spinach, tomatoes and berries can help to control your weight, blood sugar, and are filled with antioxidants to keep your body running like clockwork.

Don’t skip out on fish!

Lean fish that are high in essential Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon or tuna, lower one’s risk of heart disease and diabetes by keeping your heart happy and healthy.

No more starchy carbs!

“Keep your plate only a quarter white” and limit the amount of pasta, white bread, and potatoes you’re eating; too much and you’ll not only add some inches around your waist but also, increase your risk of diabetes.

Control the midnight munchies!

Stick to three nutritious meals per day, as adding an extra one hours after dinner can alter insulin flow and cause blood sugar spikes. If you must indulge, a great recommendation is hummus and carrots… remember only “good for you” foods.

Try butter alternatives!

Substituting saturated fats, like butter, for extra virgin olive oil will decrease insulin resistance, make your heart happy, and lower your risk of diabetes. Keep in mind that oils are high in calories, so a cooking spray may be a better weight-control option.

Make a grocery list!

The grocery store is not the place to be unprepared. Take a few minutes to make a grocery list and keep your shopping cart on track: towards the produce section and away from the “junk food” aisle.

Try alternatives to eating your emotions!

If you’re feeling any symptom of sadness or depression, talk to a professional and take care of yourself. Doing nothing is likely to have more negative health effects such as: overeating and weight gain… potentially leading to diabetes.

Go to bed at a reasonable hour!

Staying up too late or not getting enough sleep is shown to negatively affect glucose levels, hunger, and weight gain… your zzz’s are important!

Diabetes and Dental Care

Here’s something to smile about…

When living with diabetes, protecting your teeth from gum disease is easier than you think and it all starts with good blood glucose control!

Without good blood glucose control, your body has a hard time fighting off bacteria that will invade your gums, causing early or advanced gum disease. Gum disease can even cause diabetes to progress, because it directly raises blood glucose levels so…

stopping gum disease before it starts is the key!

Things to Watch For:

Gums are swollen, red, and bleed, especially when flossing.

Puss may ooze from your gums.

Your gums appear to have pulled away, making your teeth look longer.

Partial dentures don’t fit correctly, as your teeth may have shifted.

Teeth may become loose and bad breath won’t go away.

How to Prevent Dental Issues:

Most importantly… maintain blood glucose levels constantly!

Brush your teeth after every meal or snack and make sure you floss daily.

Have a dental check-up regularly and don’t delay dental work that needs to be done.

Clean partial dentures, if you wear them.

Stop smoking.

If there are any signs or symptoms of gum disease, make an appointment with a dentist immediately.

An important thing to consider is how dental work may change the way your medications and eating habits effect you, so talk with your doctor before any dental work to make sure you’re maintaining the correct blood glucose levels.

It is also important to tell your dentist and hygienist that you have diabetes as they can alter treatments and personalize them just for you.

Spicy or mild, hot or cold, you choose! This easy, 30-minute, protein-packed, turkey chili recipe will have your taste buds tingling for more.

Mozzarella, Tomato, Chickpea Salad:

This is one of the fastest salads you can make without missing out on any amazing flavors! With less than 5 ingredients, the total recipe time comes down to 5 mins… and better yet, this salad can be both an entree for lunch, and leftovers, a side for dinner.

Veggie Chicken Soup:

The cozy feeling of warm soup is made easy, and low-carb, with this veggie chicken soup recipe… and adequate servings of vegetables and protein will have you feeling full and satisfied for the rest of your busy day!

The simplicity of a sandwich makes for a quick and satisfying meal, especially on zesty pumpernickel bread! This perfect combination will make this recipe a lunch staple for weeks to come.

Black Bean Tostadas:

These tostadas are a healthier version of our favorite Mexican staple, but this time, vegetarian and low carb too! Make it as spicy or mild as you would like, or top with guacamole and romaine lettuce- the choice is yours!

Your body needs fuel… so let’s feed it something healthy!

Diabetes Tips: Preventing Hypoglycemia

Good news! Treating and preventing low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is easier than you think!

When the level of glucose in your bloodstream drops below a certain threshold, you may experience symptoms such as: dizziness, weak limbs, confusion, and/or blurred vision. If these symptoms arise, ask yourself three important questions:

Have I not eaten or skipped an entire meal recently?

Did I recently take extra insulin or other diabetes medication?

Have I just finished exercising?

If you have answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may be feeling symptoms of hypoglycemia.

In this scenario, you should eat or drink a fast-acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets or a fruit juice, to suppress symptoms and stop a potential fainting spell from occurring. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate and call your doctor.